Introducing your new baby to your family

Before you go racing all over town with your newborn, take a step back and take a breath. Solution? Have them all come to you!

Get a head count

Before you even start planning a meal, get a head count of who you can expect. If you don't have a table at which everyone can sit, think about extending the eating area to another room.

Send out the invitations

If you're gathering everyone for a big event, explain why you're holding it at your house this year. Don't worry they'll understand.

Plan a low-fuss menu

Choose a main course that cooks for a long time on its own (a slow-cooker dish or something that can be in the oven for a while is key), and then ask your guests to bring side dishes, starters, salads or dessert.

Setting Up

Don't feel as though you have to make everything picture-perfect. Gather enough seating, dishes and glasses for everyone and prepare the food – that's all you need to do. Since you're among family, you shouldn't feel pressured to wait on all your guests.

Meet and greet

Once the dinner is over, your relatives can take turns meeting and cuddling with your baby. Teamwork is imperative in both getting things ready and having a successful winding-down of the evening.

A traditional get-together can grow and change over time, just as families do. You have your own family now, and you can establish new traditions while embracing ones from your past.